***Interested in becoming a Counselor-in-Training? Please e-mail Camp Manager Natalie Pinedo at npinedo@woodcraftrangers.org and tell us more about you!***

Counselor-In-Training Program

The Counselor-in-Training (CIT) program at Camp Woodcraft offers teens ages 14-17 a unique opportunity to develop leadership skills while exploring an environmental and outdoor education career pathway. CITs learn to become effective leaders, work with peers to design an engaging camp activity, practice activity facilitation and public speaking, and work closely with camp counselors to support a group of elementary aged campers. 

Each year, CITs typically go on to become camp counselors and after-school program leaders, developing life skills and career interests in the fields of youth development, outdoor education, environmental advocacy, and more.

Core Focus Areas

There are 3 components to the CIT program.

  • Leadership Development: Participants will shadow camp counselors and lead activities to practice intentional leadership skills.
  • Youth Development: Participants will learn and practice tactics for engaging, leading and supporting campers through camp activities, and personal self-care.
  • Basic Job Skills: Participants will learn and demonstrate fundamental basic job functions.

Eligibility 

CITs are 14-17 year-old, with priority given to Camp Woodcraft returners or Woodcraft Rangers participants or alumni. Eight CITs are selected per week and each CIT is paired with a returning camp counselor and led by the camp manager. 

Method

  1. Orientation/Training: CITs will participate in a 1.5 hour training session upon arriving at camp to review expectations and tactics for their role as CITs. A CIT guide will include…
  2. Mentoring: Each CIT will be paired with a mentor camp counselor to shadow observable practices and for immediate feedback/guidance when in practice.
  3. Practice: CITs will lead specific activities throughout the day including activity transitions, team building exercises, games, and preparing for camp-wide activities. Desired observable practices include managing group and individual behavior, use of appropriate tone of voice, conflict management, and building healthy relationships with campers.
  4. Reflection: CITs will reflect individually, as a CIT cohort, and with their mentors to solidify their learning.

CIT Program FAQs

What happens after I submit a CIT application?

The camp director or camp manager will be in contact in 1-2 business days to finalize the application process. Be prepared to spend 5-10 minutes finalizing registration.

What is the cost of the CIT program?

If selected to participate in Camp Woodcraft as a CIT, participants will pay a subsidized rate of $250 for the camp week. Accommodation and meals included. 

Is transportation included?

Yes, transportation to and from camp is included.

Do CIT's participate in camp activities?

Yes. CIT’s have a unique opportunity to engage in all camp activities from a different perspective. They will work closely with camp counselors to design and facilitate activities and get to participate alongside campers in evening activities.

Do CIT’s socialize with other CIT’s?

Yes. At the end of each day CITs gather for reflection led by the camp manager. CITs reflect on their activities, observations and interactions. They identify learnings, successes and challenges, and discuss any additional relevant topics that are important to their individual growth and development within the program.  

Additionally, this opportunity allows CITs to socialize and connect, and learn from one another in meaningful ways. 

Where do CIT’s sleep and shower?

CIT’s sleep in the cabin with their unit of campers and mentor counselor. CIT’s shower in the nearby restrooms that have individual showers.